In what ways can we support church leaders, as instructed in Luke 10:7? Understanding Luke 10:7 “Stay at that house, eating and drinking what they give you, for the worker is worthy of his wages.” (Luke 10:7) Jesus sent out seventy-two messengers and commanded them to accept hospitality from those they served. He expected the household of faith to meet the tangible needs of those who ministered the Word. Core Principle: The Worker Is Worthy of His Wages • Ministry is work—spiritual, emotional, and physical. • God assigns value to that labor and appoints the church to meet the worker’s needs. • Refusing support diminishes the testimony of the gospel and burdens the servant. Practical Ways to Support Church Leaders 1. Financial Provision • Regular, generous giving to the church budget that includes fair salary and benefits (1 Corinthians 9:14). • Special offerings or love gifts in seasons of extra strain—medical expenses, conferences, sabbaticals (Philippians 4:18). 2. Material Help • Meals, groceries, or gift cards when schedules are packed or emergencies arise (Luke 10:7). • Volunteer skilled labor—childcare, home repairs, professional services. 3. Honor and Appreciation • Verbal encouragement: handwritten notes, texts, public acknowledgment (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • Celebrating ministry anniversaries and birthdays with thoughtful gestures. 4. Prayer Support • Commit to pray daily for their spiritual vitality, family, wisdom, and protection (Ephesians 6:19). • Form prayer teams or “Aaron and Hur” partners who lift up their arms in prolonged intercession (Exodus 17:12). 5. Cooperation and Obedience • “Obey your leaders and submit to them” (Hebrews 13:17). • Avoid gossip; address concerns directly and biblically (Matthew 18:15-17). 6. Continuing Education and Rest • Fund conferences, books, and theological courses (2 Timothy 2:15). • Encourage regular days off, vacations, and sabbaticals so they can serve with renewed vigor (Mark 6:31). Biblical Motivations for Our Support • 1 Timothy 5:17-18—“The elders who lead well are worthy of double honor… ‘The worker is worthy of his wages.’” • Galatians 6:6—“The one who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.” • Titus 3:13-14—Help devoted workers “so that they will have everything they need.” Encouragement to Act Scripture doesn’t present leader support as optional extras but as a joyful obligation. By supplying their material needs, honoring their labor, and standing with them in prayer and obedience, we participate in the advance of the gospel and store up eternal reward. |
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